Teacher complaining of ‘blackophobia’ wins unfair dismissal claim

Background 

Mrs Mairs worked for Kings Road Primary School, Old Trafford from 2001 up until her dismissal in February 2022. 

Beginning in 2016, Mrs Mairs - a black woman - raised concerns about racial discrimination at the primary school. 

Mairs claimed that she faced racism and a hostile work environment, which she termed "blackophobia." Mairs reported experiencing derogatory comments and discriminatory treatment compared to her white colleagues. She described a persistent culture of racism within the school from fellow staff members. Mairs raised her concerns with the school administration, seeking support and intervention. 

The school's response was inadequate, failing to properly investigate or address her complaints. The ongoing issues created a hostile and stressful work environment for Mairs. Despite her efforts to resolve the situation, the negative treatment continued. Mairs was eventually dismissed from her position. She claimed that her dismissal was directly linked to her complaints about racism, suggesting retaliation rather than any performance-related issues.

Tribunal Hearing

The employment tribunal reviewed the case and found that Mairs had been unfairly dismissed. The tribunal concluded that the school and Trafford Council's actions were influenced by her complaints of racism. The decision to dismiss Mairs had also been influenced by her colleagues' threats to leave the school if Mairs was to continue working there. The ruling emphasised the failure of the school to provide a supportive and non-discriminatory work environment. 

Commentary 

This case underscores the importance of addressing racial discrimination in the workplace and ensuring that employees can raise concerns without fear of retaliation. At Magara Law, we understand that workplace discrimination can be an overwhelming and isolating experience. Whether it's based on race, gender, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic, discrimination is not only unjust but also illegal. It is easy to allow fear or uncertainty stop you from seeking the justice you deserve. 

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Magara law is an employment law firm in Bicester, Banbury and Paddington, London, and services clients nationwide. For more information or to speak with Roy Magara, a specialist employment lawyer at Magara Law, call 01869 325 883 or email roy@magaralaw.co.uk